One of the greatest advantages of franchising is the opportunity to build careers at every level of the business. While much attention is often given to helping franchisees succeed, the strongest franchise networks also create clear pathways for employees to develop professionally, progress into leadership roles and, in some cases, become business owners themselves.
For service led sectors especially, investing in people is about far more than recruitment. Creating visible opportunities for progression helps attract ambitious individuals, improves retention and builds stronger businesses. When employees can see a long term future with a brand, they are far more likely to stay, develop their skills and contribute to its continued success.
Early years education is no exception. Despite persistent misconceptions that nursery careers offer limited progression, the reality is very different. Across the sector, practitioners are moving into management, specialist roles and even business ownership, demonstrating that early years can offer fulfilling, long term careers for those with the right ambition and support.
The British Franchise Association reported that 78 percent of franchise employees say they have clear career pathways, a figure that underscores the sector’s commitment to development.
Here, Grace Cole, managing director at Monkey Puzzle Day Nurseries, shares why creating genuine career pathways is one of the most valuable investments a franchise network can make.
It is easy to assume that career progression is something that happens after people join a business. In reality, having clear opportunities for development is often what attracts the right people in the first place. That is something we have seen time and again across our franchise network.
One person who perfectly demonstrates this is Vikki Aarons, owner of Monkey Puzzle Eltham. Having started her career as a nursery practitioner before progressing into management and eventually franchise ownership, her journey shows just how varied a career in early years education can be.
When I recently sat down with Vikki to discuss her career, one thing became immediately clear. She had always wanted to work with children, but her route into early years was not necessarily the one she expected.
“I originally planned to become a teacher,” explained Vikki. “During one of my placements in a nursery, I discovered a passion for early years. I loved supporting children through those first important years and being part of such a close knit team.”
After qualifying, Vikki gained experience working in a nursery before becoming a private nanny. Following the birth of her own children, she returned to nursery life, a decision that ultimately shaped the rest of her career. Joining Monkey Puzzle in 2013 gave Vikki the opportunity to help launch Monkey Puzzle Bexleyheath, something she believes accelerated her professional development.
“I had already progressed from practitioner to nursery manager before joining Monkey Puzzle, but opening a brand new nursery gave me invaluable experience. From building a team to welcoming new families and preparing for Ofsted inspections, the support I received helped develop my leadership skills and gave me the confidence to take the next step,” she said.
For me, Vikki’s story highlights one of the biggest strengths of franchising. Support is not just about helping franchisees grow successful businesses. It is also about giving talented people the confidence, experience and opportunities to keep progressing throughout their careers. That support eventually encouraged Vikki to consider something she had not originally imagined, becoming a business owner herself.
“My parents suggested investing in a franchise and opening a nursery together and, because of my experience with Monkey Puzzle, it was the only franchise we ever considered,” she said. “We opened Monkey Puzzle Eltham in 2018 and, eight years on, we have built an incredible team and a thriving nursery. I would love to open a second setting one day, but only if it is the right fit and allows us to maintain the quality standards we are so proud of.”
Stories like Vikki’s also help challenge outdated perceptions about careers in early years education. Too often, people still assume progression opportunities are limited, when in reality the sector offers numerous routes into leadership, specialist roles and business ownership.
When I asked Vikki what advice she would give someone considering a career in early years, her answer was simple: “I would encourage anyone considering a career in early years to go for it. It is an incredible field with real potential for growth and fulfilment.”
